The Los Angeles Angels have re-signed right-handed pitcher Taijuan Walker to a minor league contract. Walker will report to Triple-A Salt Lake for an immediate start against the Arizona Diamondbacks’ affiliate. The deal allows the Angels to maintain control over a potential rotation piece while managing financial obligations tied to Walker’s remaining 2024 salary.
Walker had opted out of a prior non-roster deal with the Angels on Monday. The move is standard in the MLB, as players often test free agency before rejoining their previous organization. Walker had been on the market for a month before signing with the Angels in late May. He is currently earning $18 million from the Philadelphia Phillies, a figure that remains unchanged after his release in April. The Angels will only owe Walker a prorated $780,000 if he is promoted to the major league roster.
The Phillies’ decision to part ways with Walker came after a poor 2024 season. In 22 2/3 innings with the team, Walker posted a 1.07 earned runs per inning, prompting the club to release him. Walker made a brief appearance in the Complex League before joining Salt Lake, where he pitched 4 2/3 innings against Colorado’s affiliate, allowing two runs while striking out three and walking three.
The Angels are currently evaluating their starting rotation depth as they prepare for a crucial stretch of games. José Soriano, Reid Detmers, Grayson Rodriguez, and Walbert Ureña are locked into the top four spots. The team lost Jack Kochanowicz to Tommy John surgery earlier this week, creating an opening. Sam Aldegheri is getting the first shot at the final rotation spot and will start tomorrow’s series opener against Tampa Bay’s Shane McClanahan.
Walker’s potential promotion could alter the team’s plans. However, the Angels are not under financial pressure to bring him up immediately. The team is balancing performance and cost while navigating the final months of the season. Walker’s track record and recent Triple-A performance will be key factors in that decision.
The Angels and D-backs Triple-A affiliates meet again on Thursday. Walker’s next start could provide further insight into his readiness for a major league return.
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